VOC-free compressed gas aerosol composition

ABSTRACT

Certain surfactants suitable for use alone to dissolve a water-insoluble component in compositions is described for providing VOC-free compressed gas aerosol compositions. The compositions include water-insoluble component(s), a surfactant and water. The water-insoluble component(s) can be active agent(s), such as fragrance(s) and/or an insecticide(s). The surfactant is present as a single surfactant which, in the absence of a solvent, dissolves or disperses the water-insoluble component(s) and provides a homogenous blend in water which provides a stable compressed gas emulsion. The surfactant is an anionic surfactant or a nonionic surfactant, in particular nonionic alkylpolyglycosides; nonionic cocoglucoside; nonionic alkylene oxide extended chain alkylpolyglycosides; anionic sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES), nonionic C 13 -C 15  oxoalcohol ethoxylate with 8 ethylene oxides (EO), nonionic C 12 -C 14  secondary alcohol ethoxylate with 7EO or 12EO, polyethylene glycol (PEG) hydrogenated castor oil wherein the PEG is PEG-60 or PEG-40, polyglyceryl-10 laurate and polyglyceryl-6 caprylate.

RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 60/816,870 filed Jun. 28, 2006 and U.S. Ser. No.11/819,378 filed Jun. 27, 2007, of which the present application is acontinuation.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates to the inclusion of a single surfactantselected from specified surfactants in various compositions to dissolveor disperse water insoluble components of the compositions to provideVOC-free compressed gas aerosol compositions.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

Liquid components or compositions, such as fragrance oils, insecticides,medicines, cleaners, polishes, hair sprays, cosmetics, paints, and thelike are composed of materials that are insoluble in water. These liquidcomponents and compositions are used in the manufacture of aerosolcompositions. Such liquid components and compositions usually requirethe inclusion of solvents to produce a homogeneous blend in water.

Further, aerosol compositions are generally pressurized with hydrocarbonpropellants. For many reasons, including environmental concerns,industries are replacing hydrocarbons in aerosol compositions withcompressed gas. However, compressed gas aerosol compositions havetypically had several problems, including, but not limited to, not beingable to produce stable aqueous mixtures of oils, insecticides,medicines, cleaners, polishes, hair sprays, and cosmetics. Due to thisproblem, most compressed gas aerosol compositions produced today containmaterials to help dissolve or disperse these “active” ingredients.Typically, these materials are mixtures of surfactant(s), solvent(s) andvolatile organic compound(s) (VOC(s)). Alcohols, such as ethanol andisopropyl alcohol, are common solvents used in these compositions.Glycols and their derivatives are also used as solvents in thesecompositions.

Since fragrance oils, insecticides, cleaners, polishes, hair sprays,cosmetics, and the like are composed of materials that are insoluble inwater, solvents have previously been added to such compositions toincrease the overall solubility of these materials. The desirability ofVOC-free aerosol systems has created a need for stable emulsions notcontaining solvents.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,382,078 discloses a two-phase water-based aerosolcomposition including an active ingredient, a surfactant, a stabilizerand dimethylether (DME) propellant. The surfactant is a block copolymerof ethylene oxide and propylene oxide of a specified formula. Perfumes,insecticides, bactericides, fungicides, herbicides or deodorizing agentsmay be included in the composition.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,238,646 B1 discloses aqueous aerosol compositions forthe delivery of atomized oil, such as a fragrance oil, insecticide oiland medicinal oil. The composition includes water, a water-solublepropellant such as dimethylether, dispersed oil phase in water, nonionicsurfactant and a polymeric emulsifier. The nonionic surfactant is statedto help suspend the oil particles by decreasing the droplet size of thedispersed phase in the water.

U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0209795 A1 (whichcorresponds to WO 2005/093836 A2) discloses a perfume composition in theform of a highly transparent VOC-free microemulsion. The microemulsionincludes an oil (such as a perfume oil); a surfactant system includingone or more ionic surfactants and one or more nonionic surfactants; asolubilizing aid and water. The oil may contain a solvent. The ionicsurfactants can be anionic, cationic or amphoteric. The amount ofsurfactant system present is stated to be dependent on essentially theamount of oil and solubilizing aid present and the amount necessary toprovide a microemulsion. The solubilizing aid can be an organic orinorganic salt, such as selected from the group consisting of ammonium,alkaline and alkaline earth salts of C₁ to C₁₅ mono- and dicarboxylicacid derivatives, bicarbonates, halogenates, thiocyanates, and mixturesof the salts.

U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0020698 A1 (whichcorresponds to WO 2005/005264 A2) discloses an aerosol product without avapor tap and having a more stable emulsion using a significantly lowerratio of propellant to product. The more stable emulsion is provided bytailoring a surfactant system to other ingredients of the formulationwhile using decreasing percentages by weight of the propellant andeliminating the vapor tap from the valve. The aerosol products can beflying insects insecticides, room fogger insecticides and airsanitizers. The functional ingredient provides a scent, or insecticidal,germicidal or other function. Examples disclosed include water, acorrosion inhibitor, perfume oil, surfactant(s) and a hydrocarbonpropellant.

U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2003/0005522 A1; and U.S. Pat.Nos. 6,451,065; 6,248,135; 6,077,318, and 5,670,475 disclose an aqueouscomposition for reducing malodor impression including perfume and anaqueous carrier and optionally a solubilizing aid, cyclodextrin and ametallic salt. The solubilizing aid is to solubilize any excess organicmaterials, in particular the perfume and other optional ingredientsadded, such as an insect repelling agent. A suitable solubilizing aid isa surfactant, which can be nonionic, cationic, amphoteric, zwitterionicor mixtures thereof. Anionic surfactants are stated to not be preferredbecause they form water-insoluble salts with metal ions of metallicsalts. The composition can be dispensed from a spray dispenser which maybe an aerosol using a propellant such as compressed air.

U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,734,029; 5,266,690; 5,449,763; 5,859,218, and 5,962,399disclose alkylpolyglycoside compositions having enhanced surfactantproperties and containing mixtures of alkylpolyglycosides of differingalkyl chain lengths, varying degrees of polymerization and surfactantproperties. The surfactant alkylpolyglycosides are stated to be usefulin personal care, cosmetic, detergent, household and industrial uses.The alkylpolyglycoside mixture is stated to have improved criticalmicelle concentration (CMC) and interfacial tension (IFT) propertieswhich are useful in emulsification and solubilization.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,729,559 B2 discloses a rotatable aerosol productincluding a container holding an aerosol composition. The aerosolcomposition is a concentrate (a liquid containing an effectiveingredient) and a propellant. The effective ingredient can be aninsecticide or fragrance. The propellant can be a compressed gas such ascarbon dioxide, nitrogen, nitrogen suboxide or air. The concentrate maybe a spray foam containing a foaming agent such as a surfactant.

U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0124512 A1 discloses an airand fabric freshener that may contain a perfume and a compressed gas,such as air. The perfume ingredients and any malodor counteractantingredients can include any suitable percentage and the balance can be acarrier and any optional ingredient such as surfactants.

U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,538,978; 5,494,912, and 5,527,803 disclose purinenucleoside phosphorylase inhibitors. These compounds can be administeredas injectable dosages of the compound in a physiologically acceptablediluent. The diluent may be a surfactant, which can be a singlecomponent or a mixture, such as high molecular weight adducts ofethylene oxide with a hydrophobic base. The compound can also beadministered as an aerosol or spray composition. The spray compositioncan also contain a surfactant and be applied by means of a propellantunder pressure or by means of a compressible plastic spray bottle,nebulizer or atomizer without the use of a gaseous propellant.

European Patent Application No. 0 488 668 A1 discloses aherbicide-containing liquid including a surfactant. The surfactant is toprovide foaming and can be cationic, anionic, nonionic, or amphoteric.Diluents to dissolve or suspend the herbicide and surfactant can also beused, such as water, alcohol, ethylene glycol and glycol ethers. Theliquid can be applied as an aerosol. The herbicide, surfactant anddiluent will be enclosed in an aerosol container together with apropellant, such as a compressed gas (e.g., carbon dioxide, nitrogengas, nitrous oxide and air).

U.S. Pat. No. 5,489,433 discloses an insecticide composition includinghydroxy acyclic acid (as the active) and any ionic or nonionicsurfactant. The composition can be delivered in aerosol form. Thepurpose of the surfactant is stated to be to reduce the surface tensionof the insecticidal composition so that when the composition is appliedto the body of an insect, the penetration of the hydroxy acyclic acidinto the insect's nervous system is facilitated so as to disrupt normalrespiratory function of the insect and thereby suffocate the insect.

U.S. Pat. No. 3,829,578 discloses an active antiviral compound which isuseful with conventional pharmaceutical carriers, e.g., water, with orwithout the addition of a surfactant. The active compound can bepackaged as an aerosol with a gaseous or liquefied propellant, e.g.,carbon dioxide, with the usual adjuvants such as solvents or wettingagents. Typical surface active ingredients which can be used includehigh molecular weight alkyl polyglycol ethers.

U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0192197 A1 discloses aperoxycarboxylic acid for reducing a population of microorganisms.Various solubilizers can be used with the acid, including varioussurfactants. A foaming composition is described which includes the acidcompound and foaming surfactants, such as alcohol ethoxylates and alkylether sulfates. At the time of use, compressed air can be injected intothe mixture.

U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0165042 A1 discloses anactive heterocyclic compound which may be administered by injection. Thecomposition to be injected can contain a nonionic surfactant inconjunction with the heterocyclic compound. The surfactant can be asingle component.

U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0089540 A1 discloses acomposition for application to surfaces for providing controlled releaseof a microencapsulated active ingredient, such as a perfume. Thecomposition can include an aerosol propellant, such as compressed air.In addition to the perfume and propellant, the composition can include astabilizer, such as isopropyl myristate, a dispersant and an aqueouscarrier. The dispersant serves to suspend the microencapsules in thecomposition. The composition can optionally include a surfactant or amixture of surfactants.

The above-described compositions have various shortcomings which areaddressed by the present invention.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to the inclusion of a single surfactantselected from specified surfactants in various compositions to dissolveor disperse water-insoluble components of the compositions to provideVOC-free compressed gas aerosol compositions. The compositions of theinvention comprise one or more water-insoluble components, a surfactantand water. The water-insoluble component(s) preferably are activeagent(s), such as fragrance(s) and/or insecticide(s), which arewater-insoluble or contain a water-insoluble component. Since the activeagent is water-insoluble, generally, a solvent or a mixture ofsurfactants is required to dissolve or disperse the active agent.However, the present invention comprises the inclusion of a singlesurfactant in the absence of a solvent to dissolve or disperse thewater-insoluble component(s), e.g., fragrance or insecticide, and toprovide a homogenous blend in water. The surfactant of the invention isan anionic surfactant or a nonionic surfactant which produces a stablecompressed gas aerosol emulsion. Cationic and zwitterionic surfactantsdo not provide a stable compressed gas aerosol emulsion in accordancewith the present invention.

Combinations of different surfactant groups and single surfactants,usually nonionic and/or anionic surfactants, can create stableemulsions. As such, surfactants are recognized generally as asolubilizing aid or agent. However, aerosol compositions have generallyincluded another ingredient in addition to a surfactant, such as anemulsifier, solvent or solubilizing agent. In contrast, the presentinvention uses a sole anionic or nonionic surfactant as further detailedbelow for dissolving or dispersing water-insoluble components, such asactive agents, e.g. fragrances and/or insecticides.

The anionic and nonionic surfactants of the invention for dissolving ordispersing one or more water-insoluble component(s), preferablyfragrance(s), are nonionic alkylpolyglycosides (e.g., APG® 325 NK, fromCognis-Care Chemicals, Cincinnati, Ohio); nonionic coco-glucoside, i.e.,a C₈-C₁₆ alkylpolyglycoside (e.g., Glucopon® 425 N, from Cognis-CareChemicals, Cincinnati, Ohio); nonionic alkylene oxide extended chainalkypolyglycosides (APG) (e.g., ethylene oxide or propylene oxide APG);anionic sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES), nonionic C₁₃-C₁₅ oxoalcoholethoxylate with 8 ethylene oxides (EO), i.e., C₁₃-C₁₅ ethoxylated fattyalcohol (e.g., Lutensol® AO8, from BASF Aktiengesellschaft, Germany),nonionic C₁₂-C₁₄ secondary alcohol ethoxylates (e.g., Tergitol® 15-S-7and Tergitol® 15-S-12, from Dow Chemical Co.), nonionic polyethyleneglycol (PEG) hydrogenated castor oil (e.g. Tagat® CH-60 (solid PEG-60hydrogenated castor oil) and Tagat® CH-40 (solid PEG-40 hydrogenatedcaster oil) from Goldschmidt Chemical Corp.), nonionic polyglyceryl-10laurate (e.g. Dermofeel® G10L from Kinetik Technologies, Hazlet, N.J.),and nonionic polyglyceryl-6 caprylate (e.g. Dermofeel® G6CY from KinetikTechnologies). C₁₃-C₁₅ ethoxylated fatty alcohols (e.g., Lutenosol®AO8), C₁₂-C₁₄ secondary alcohol ethoxylates (e.g. Tergitol® 15-S-12 and15-S-7), ethoxylated castor oil (e.g. Tagat® CH-60 and Tagat® CH-40),polyglyceryl-10 laurate and polyglyceryl-6 caprylate (e.g. Dermofeel®G10L and G6CY respectively) are also preferred for dissolving ordispersing insecticides.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Referring to the drawings:

The sole FIGURE is a graph showing the dynamic surface tension plot forcloudy versus clear emulsions in accordance with the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present invention relates to the inclusion of a single surfactant,which is selected from specified surfactants, in compositions todissolve or disperse one or more water-insoluble component(s), e.g.,active agent(s) of the compositions, to provide VOC-free compressed gasaerosol compositions. The compositions of the invention comprise one ormore water-insoluble components, a surfactant and water. Thewater-insoluble component(s) is/are preferably active agent(s) such asfragrance(s) and/or insecticide(s) which are or contain water-insolublecomponents. Due to the water-insoluble nature of the components, asolvent or a mixture of surfactants has in the past been required todissolve or disperse the water-insoluble component. However, the presentinvention comprises inclusion of a single surfactant in the absence of asolvent to dissolve or disperse water-soluble components, such as anactive agent(s), e.g., fragrance(s) and/or insecticide(s), and toprovide a homogenous blend in water. The surfactant is an anionicsurfactant or a nonionic surfactant which produces a stable compressedgas aerosol emulsion. Cationic and zwitterionic surfactants do notprovide a stable compressed gas aerosol emulsion in accordance with thepresent invention.

Combinations of different surfactant groups and single surfactants,usually nonionic and/or anionic surfactants, create stable emulsions. Assuch, surfactants are recognized generally as a solubilizing aid oragent in liquid compositions. However, aerosol compositions haverequired another ingredient in addition to a surfactant, such as anemulsifier, solvent or solubilizing agent, to create a stable emulsion.The present invention provides a stable emulsion without the inclusionof a solvent through the inclusion of a sole anionic or nonionicsurfactant as further detailed herein, for use with water-insolublecomponents, e.g. active agents such as fragrances and/or insecticides.

The anionic and nonionic surfactants of the invention for dissolving ordispersing a water-insoluble component, and preferably suitable forfragrances, are nonionic alkylpolyglycosides (e.g., APG® 325 NK, fromCognis-Care Chemicals, Cincinnati, Ohio); nonionic coco-glucoside, i.e.,a C₈-C₁₆ alkylpolyglycoside (e.g., Glucopon® 425 N, from Cognis-CareChemicals, Cincinnati, Ohio); alkylene oxide extended chainalkypolyglycosides (APG) (e.g. ethylene oxide APG, propylene oxide APG);anionic sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES), nonionic C₁₃-C₁₅ oxoalcoholethoxylate with 8 ethylene oxides (EO), i.e., C₁₃-C₁₅ ethoxylated fattyalcohol (e.g., Lutensol® AO8, from BASF Aktiengesellschaft, Germany),nonionic C₁₂-C₁₄ secondary alcohol ethoxylates (e.g., Tergitol® 15-S-7and Tergitol® 15-S-12, from Dow Chemical Co.), nonionic polyethyleneglycol (PEG) hydrogenated castor oil (e.g. Tagat® CH-60 (solid PEG-60hydrogenated castor oil) and Tagat® CH-40 (solid PEG-40 hydrogenatedcastor oil) from Goldschmidt Chemical Corp.), nonionic polyglyceryl-10laurate (e.g. Dermofeel® G10L from Kinetik Technologies, Hazlet, N.J.),and nonionic polyglyceryl-6 caprylate (e.g. Dermofeel® G6CY from KinetikTechnologies). C₁₃-C₁₅ ethoxylated fatty alcohols (e.g., Lutenosol®AO8), C₁₂-C₁₄ secondary alcohol ethoxylates (e.g. Tergitol® 15-S-12 and15-S-7), ethoxylated castor oil (e.g. Tagat® CH-60 and Tagat® CH-40),polyglyceryl-10 laurate and polyglyceryl-6 caprylate (e.g., Dermofeel®G10L and G6CY, respectively) are also preferred for dissolving ordispersing water-insoluble insecticides.

In accordance with the invention, various fragrance oils, insecticideadditives and surfactants were tested as described hereafter. Thesurfactants analyzed included anionic, cationic, zwitterionic andnonionic surfactants.

Twenty fragrances, which are water-insoluble or contain awater-insoluble component, were used in the tests described below. Eachfragrance sample was of a different fragrance compound. The fragrancesare commercially available and were made by different fragrancemanufacturers, i.e., Takasago, Quest and International Flavors andFragrances.

Table 1 sets forth various insecticide additives and the physical statethereof which were used in the tests described herein.

TABLE 1 Insect additives and physical state Chemical Name Physical StateSample 1 - Cyfluthrin Solid Sample 2 - Propoxin Powder Sample 3 - MGA264 Liquid Sample 4 - Pyrethrum Extract Liquid Sample 5 - Direct Blue 86Powder Sample 6 - Permethrin Crystalline Sample 7 - Cypermethrin ResinSample 8 - Imiprothrin Liquid Sample 9 - Quest Q-9633 Liquid Sample 10 -Neo-Pynamin Powder Sample 11 - Sumithrin Liquid Sample 12 - PynaminForte Liquid Sample 13 - IFF 2178 Liquid

Cyfluthrin isα-cyano-3-phenoxy-4-fluorobenzyl-2,2-dimethyl-3(2,2-dichlorovinyl)cyclopropanecarboxylate,from Nanjing Agrovance Chemical Industry Ltd.

MGA 264 is a melengestrol acetate.

Pyrethrum Extract is a natural extract from chrisantemum cinerariifoliumflower heads, from AJE GmbH.

Permethrin is a3-(2,2-Dichloroethenyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylic acid(3-phenoxyphenyl)methyl ester; i.e., a 3-phenoxy benzyl(1RS)-cis,trans-3-(2,2 dichlorovinyl)-2,2 dimethyl-cyclopropanecarboxylate.

Cypermethrin is a cyano(3-phenoxyphenyl)methyl3-(2,2-dichloroethenyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropane-carboxylate, fromNanjing Agrovance Chemical Industry Ltd.

Imiprothrin is a [2,5-dioxo-3-(2-propynyl)-1-imidazolidinyl]methyl(1R)-2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-methyl-1-propenyl)cyclopropanecarboxylate.

Quest Q-9633 is a formulated mixture of a water conditioning agent andactivator designed to enhance pesticide performance by modifying factorssuch as pH and hard water, from Helena Chemical Co.

Neopynamin is a (1,3,4,5,6,7-hexahydro-1,3-dioxo-2H-isoindol-2-yl)methyl2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-methyl-1-propenyl)-cyclopropanecarboxylate.

Sumithrin is a 3-phenoxybenzyl2-dimethyl-3-(methylpropenyl)cyclopropanecarboxylate.

Pynamin Forte is a (1R)-cis,trans-chrysanthemic acid, ester with(RS)-allethrolone.

IFF 2178 is manufactured by International Flavors and Fragrances.

Table 2 sets forth a list of surfactants used in the tests describedherein.

TABLE 2 Surfactant Names and Class Surfactant Name Class  1 -Alkylbenzene sulfonic acid (linear) Anionic  2 - Sodium lauryl ethersulfate (SLES)  3 - Cetrimonium chloride Cationic  4 - Cocoamidopropylbetaine Zwitterionic  5 - Lauramine oxide  6 - C₁₃-C₁₅ oxoalcoholethoxylate with 8 EO; C₁₃-C₁₅ Nonionic ethoxylated fatty alcohol  7 -C₁₃-C₁₅ oxoalcohol ethoxylate with 8 EO; C₁₃-C₁₅ ethoxylated fattyalcohol  8 - An ethoxylated fatty alcohol  9 - fatty alcohol C₁₂-C₁₄EO/PO derivative surfactant 10 - fatty alcohol C₁₂-C₁₄ EO/PO derivativesurfactant 11ST-15 12 - Coco-glucoside (C₈-C₁₆ alkyl polyglycoside) 13 -alkylpolyglycoside based on synthetic C₉-C₁₁ fatty alcohol 14 -Polymeric surfactant #1 15 - Polymeric surfactant #2 Specific examplescorresponding to the numbers above include: 1 - Biosoft ®, from StepanCo., Northfield, Illinois 3 - Ammonyx ® CETAC, from Stepan Co.,Northfield, Illinois 4 - Lonzaine ® CO, from Lonza Inc., Fair Lawn, NewJersey 5 - Ammonyx ® LO, from Stepan Co., Northfield, Illinois 6 -Lutensol ® A08, from BASF Aktiengesellschaft, Germany 7 - Plurafac ®A08, from BASF Aktiengesellschaft, Germany 8 - Plurafac ® A037, fromBASF Aktiengesellschaft, Germany 9 - Dehypon ® LS 36, from Cognis - CareChemicals, Cincinnati, Ohio 10 - Dehyon ® LS 54, from Cognis - CareChemicals, Cincinnati, Ohio 11 - ST-15 12 - Glucopon ® 425 N, fromCognis - Care Chemicals, Cincinnati, Ohio 13 - APG ® 325 NK, fromCognis - Care Chemicals, Cincinnati, Ohio 14 - Hypermer ® 70/Atlas ®G5000, from Uniqema, The Netherlands 15 - Hypermer ® B246SF/Atlas ®G5000, from Uniqema, The NetherlandsExperimental ProcedureSmall-Scale Test: Fragrance Oils

Fragrances of varying aromatic backgrounds were selected and mixed insmall-scale samples to determine their solubility using the varyingsurfactants. The surfactant to fragrance ratio was tested at high andlow levels, and with or without a solubilizer. Table 3 shows a layoutfor small-scale fragrance oil sample formulations with one surfactant,one fragrance, optionally, propylene glycol present as a solubilizer,and water. Table 3 also shows the ratio of parts of each component ineach of samples 1-5. This pattern was completed for each of thepredetermined fragrances and each of the surfactants. Samples were madein 20 milliliter vials. The fragrance, surfactant and optionalsolubilizer, e.g., propylene glycol, were first mixed in the vials andthen deionizied water was added.

TABLE 3 Small-scale fragrance oil sample formulations Parts PropyleneDeionized Fragrance Surfactant Glycol Water Sample 1 1 2 0 100 Sample 21 5 0 100 Sample 3 1 2 0.02 100 Sample 4 1 2 1 100 Sample 5 1 5 0.02 100

Once made, the samples were shaken and observed to determine if a stablesolution or emulsion formed. If the system was an emulsion, the time wasrecorded when the emulsion broke. The surfactants used for dissolvingdispersing fragrances were (1) the nonionic alkylpolyglycoside based onsynthetic C₉-C₁₁ fatty alcohols, i.e., APG® 325 NK; (2) the nonioniccoco-glucoside C₈-C₁₆ alkylpolyglycoside, i.e., Glucopon® 425 N; (3) theanionic sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES), and (4) the nonionic C₂₃-C₁₅oxoalcohol ethoxylate with 8 ethyleneoxides (EO), i.e., Lutensole AO8.These surfactants are discussed in greater detail hereafter.

Large-Scale Test: Fragrance Oils

Larger samples were made in glass aerosol containers in order to viewthe solutions. The four surfactants of the small-scale test detailedabove were used with each of the twenty fragrances. Nitrogen was addedto the samples to place them under pressure. The samples were thenranked visually and a preferred sample was chosen.

Clear Versus Cloudy Emulsions

With the preferred sample chosen, spray characteristics were taken todetermine if there was a difference between using a cloudy emulsionversus a clear emulsion. Certain fragrance oils were easier to put intosolution than other fragrance oils, thus resulting in both clear andcloudy solutions for the same surfactant. With a “no-difference” resultfrom these comparisons, either a cloudy or a clear solution could beused, as long as the solution is homogeneous, and the surfactant levelscan therefore be minimized. In order to test this, a fragrance oil knownin the art to be difficult to place into solution and a fragrance oilknown in the art to be easy to place into solution in comparison wereused in a ratio set-up. These ratios are shown in Table 4. Theseformulations were then placed into 200/700 cans and pressurized toaround 95 psi using nitrogen gas.

TABLE 4 Ratios for emulsion clarity study Ratio Description A 9:01Difficult Oil: Clear at lowest load B 9:01 Easy Oil: Clear at same loadas A C 1.4:1   Easy Oil: Clear at lowest load D 1:01 Easy Oil: Cloudy athighest load E 1:01 Difficult Oil: Cloudy at same load as DThereafter, the following parameters were analyzed to test parity,particle size, spray rate, span, concentration, obscuration, retentionand dynamic surface tension of the samples. Particle size, span,concentration and obscuration were determined using a particle sizer, inparticular the Malvern particle sizer. Spray rate and retention weremeasured using known spray and weigh techniques. Dynamic surface tensionwas determined using a bubble pressure tensiometer.ResultsSmall-Scale Test: Fragrance Oils

Results from the small-scale fragrance formulations test are shown inTable 5. In Table 5, an “S” indicates that the resulting emulsions weresoluble, staying in solution for over 24 hours. An “I” indicates thatthe oil was insoluble. An “E/t” indicates that the solution did not forman emulsion, with the “t” indicating the amount of time it took for theemulsion to break (in hours).

TABLE 5 Results from small-scale fragrance test Fragrance FragranceFragrance Fragrance Fragrance Fragrance Fragrance S/C T/M R/A L/S S/FM/S R/S C₁₃-C₁₅ oxoalcohol S S S S S S S ethoxylate with 8 EO; C₁₃-C₁₅ethoxylated alcohol (Lutensol ® A08) An ethoxylated E/0.5 E/0.5 E/0.5E/0.5 E/0.5 E/0.5 E/0.5 fatty alcohol (Plurafac ® A037) SorbitanMonooleate E/1.5 E/1.5 E/1.5 E/1.5 E/1.5 E/1.5 E/1.5 (Span ® 80) SodiumLauryl S S S E/24 E/24 S S Ether Sulfate (SLES) Fatty alcohol E/3.5E/3.5 E/3.5 E/2.5 E/5.5 E/5.5 E/3.5 C₁₂-C₁₄ EO/PO derivative surfactant(Dehypon ® LS-36) Fatty alcohol S E/4.5 E/4.5 E/5.5 E/4.5 E/24 E/3.5C₁₂-C₁₄ EO/PO derivative (Dehypon ® LS-54) ST-15 S S E/24 E/1.5 E/4.5E/24 S Coco-glucoside; S S E/24 E/24 E/24 S E/24 C₈-C₁₆ alkylpolyglycoside (Glucopon ® 425 N) Alkylpoly- S S S S S E/24 E/24glycoside based on synthetic C₉-C₁₁ fatty alcohol (APG ® 325 NK)Cocoamido- S E/5.5 S S S S S propyl betaine (Lonzaine ® CO) Cetrimoniumchloride S E/6 E/4 E/4 E/4 E/4 E/3 (Ammonyx ® CETAC) Lauramine oxide SE/4 S S E/5 E/24 E/4 (Ammonyx ® LO) Alkylbenzene S E/4 E/5 E/5 E/4 E/5E/4 sulfonic acid (linear) (Biosoft ®) S—Soluble I—InsolubleE/t—Emulsion/time (hours) to break emulsion

As shown in Table 5, none of the surfactant/fragrance combinationsresulted in an insoluble solution. However, samples suitable for use arethose that are completely soluble across the board, i.e., the surfactantwith each fragrance forms a soluble composition, or samples that kept anemulsion for at least 24 hours, i.e., C₁₃-C₁₅ oxoalcohol ethoxylate with8 EO (C₁₃-C₁₅ ethoxylated fatty alcohol, Lutensol® AO8); sodium laurylether sulfate (SLES); coco-glucoside (C₈-C₁₆ alkyl polyglycoside,Glucopon® 425 N); alkylpolyglycoside based on synthetic C₉-C₁₁ fattyalcohols (APG® 325 NK). C₁₃-C₁₅ oxoalcohol ethoxylate with 8 EO, i.e.,C₁₃-C₁₅ ethoxylated fatty alcohol, e.g., Lutensol® AO8; sodium laurylether sulfate (SLES); coco-glucoside, i.e., C₈-C₁₆ alkyl polyglycoside,e.g., Glucopon® 425 N, and alkylpolyglycoside based on synthetic C₉-C₁₁fatty alcohols, e.g., APG® 325 NK, were also used in a large-scale test.These surfactants were selected at their optimal ratios determined fromthe small-scale samples. Sodium lauryl ether sulfate and coco-glucoside,i.e., Glucopon® 425 N, were mixed in a 2:1 ratio with the fragranceoils, while the optimal ratio for the C₁₃-C₁₅ oxoalcohol ethoxylate with8 EO, e.g., Lutensol® AO8, and alkylpolyglycoside based on syntheticC₉-C₁₁ fatty alcohols, e.g., APG® 325 NK, were mixed at a 5:1 ratio withthe fragrance oils. Examples 1 and 2 detailed below describe theformulations used to mix these solutions for the large-scale test.

The following examples are illustrative and not intended to limit thescope of the invention.

Example 1 2:1 Surfactant to Fragrance Oil Under Nitrogen Gas

0.88 grams fragrance oil and 1.76 grams surfactant were added to a 140milliliter glass aerosol bottle and were mixed. To this solution, 87.37grams of deionized water was added and the resulting solution was thenmixed. A valve standard for this size bottle was crimped thereon andapproximately 0.2 grams nitrogen gas was added to bring the overallpressure of the solution to 60 psi.

Example 2 5:1 Surfactant to Fragrance Oil Under Nitrogen Gas

0.88 grams fragrance oil and 4.26 grams surfactant were added to a 140milliliter glass aerosol bottle and were mixed. To this solution, 84.87grams deionized water was added and the resulting solution was thenmixed. A valve standard for this size bottle was crimped thereon, andapproximately 0.2 grams nitrogen gas was added to bring the overallpressure of the solution to 60 psi.

Large-Scale Test: Fragrance Oils

All twenty fragrances were used in a qualitative test on the foursurfactants identified above. Table 6 shows how each of these foursurfactants ranked in accordance with each of the fragrance oils. Anumeric system was established to use in the ranking, since all of theformulations created mostly stable emulsions. A “1” indicates acrystal-clear solution. A “2” indicates that the emulsion was slightlycloudy. A “3” indicates that the emulsion is stable but cloudy. A “4”indicates that there is some separation. A “5” indicates an unstableemulsion. These rankings were assigned after the emulsions were allowedto sit for 48 hours.

TABLE 6 Stability results from glass aerosol test for fragrances after48 hours Alkylpoly- Coco- C₁₃-C₁₅ oxoalcohol glycoside based onglucoside; ethoxylate with 8 EO; Sodium synthetic C₉-C₁₁ C₈-C₁₆ alkylC₁₃-C₁₅ ethoxylated Lauryl fatty alcohols polyglycoside fatty alcoholEther (APG ® 325 NK) (Glucopon ® 425 N) (Lutensol ® A08) SulfateFragrance S/C 1 1 1 1 Fragrance C/G 2 2 5 3 Fragrance S/F 2 2 3 3Fragrance T/M 2 3 2 3 Fragrance R/A 1 2 2 3 Fragrance R/S 2 4 2 3Fragrance S/S 2 3 3 4 Fragrance L/S 2 2 3 3 Fragrance M/S 2 2 2 3Fragrance C/L 1 2 3 3 Fragrance M/M 2 2 3 4 Fragrance G 1 2 3 3Fragrance F/V 1 1 1 1 Fragrance P/F 1 2 1 1 Fragrance N 2 2 1 1Fragrance H/B 1 4 1 2 Fragrance L/M 2 2 3 4 Fragrance C/S 2 2 5 1Fragrance M/B 2 3 3 3 Fragrance B/G 2 3 3 3 Averages 1.65 2.3 2.5 2.61 - crystal-clear solution 2 - emulsion slightly cloudy 3 - emulsionstable, but cloudy 4 - some separation 5 - unstable emulsion

From the results shown in Table 6, it can be seen that all theformulations formed good, stable emulsions. Alkylpolyglycoside based onsynthetic C₉-C₁₁ fatty alcohols, e.g., APG® 325 NK was shown to form thehighest number of clear solutions with the least amount of any type ofseparation. Coco-glucoside, i.e., C₈-C₁₆ alkyl polyglycoside, Glucopon®425 N, and sodium lauryl ether sulfate, each performed at good levelsfor application in the present invention.

The clarity of the emulsion affecting the resulting spray was alsodetermined. All of the emulsions formed were stable emulsions, but somewere crystal-clear emulsions while others were cloudy in nature. To showthe non-effect thereof when used in accordance with the invention,samples were made at varying surfactant ratios to achieve clear andcloudy solutions with different fragrances at the same surfactantlevels.

Parity Between Cloudy and Clear Emulsions

To show that a viable surfactant package is provided, parity was shownto exist between the clear and cloudy solutions. Tables 7A and 7B showthe spray characteristics obtained from spraying down the sampleformulations previously described in Table 4, using alkylpolyglycosidebased on synthetic C₉-C₁₁ fatty alcohols, e.g., APG® 325 NK, as thesurfactant. These measurements were recorded starting from the initialfill weight (Table 7A) and then later when the samples were sprayed downto an equal weight to simulate “late in life” situations (Table 7B). Twosamples of each were run and averaged to ensure consistency.

-   Tables 7A and 7B: Spray Characteristics for Cloudy versus clear    emulsions

TABLE 7A Initial Readings D(3, 2) D(V, 0.5) Sample Particle Particle #Size^(ave) Size^(ave) Span^(ave) Obscuration^(ave) Conc.^(ave) A 70.4393.73 1.11 27.28% 0.075% B 75.88 99.43 1.17 25.65% 0.060% C 77.05 94.583.25 26.33% 0.079% D 77.73 94.33 5.40 27.10% 0.080% E 76.15 91.48 3.2425.63% 0.075%

TABLE 7B Late in Life Readings D(3, 2) D(V, 0.5) Sample ParticleParticle Obscur- # Size^(ave) Size^(ave) Span^(ave) ation^(ave)Conc.^(ave) Retention A 94.53 108.53 1.13 19.53% 0.066% 0.46 B 91.23111.63 1.21 20.33% 0.069% 0.45 C 88.80 107.85 1.08 19.40% 0.064% 0.34 D90.45 105.43 3.03 18.78% 0.062% 0.59 E 91.55 103.90 5.23 18.08% 0.059%0.47

Particle size was measured in microns, spray rate was measured in gramsper second, retention was measured in grams, and both concentration andobscuration were determined and reported as percentages. The span is therelation between the largest and smallest particle sizes detected by aparticle sizer, such as the Malvern particle sizer. Overall particlesize is determined as both the volume median diameter (D(V, 0.5)) andthe surface area moment mean diameter (D(3.2)). The sole FIGURE displaysthe surface tensions for each of these solutions.

As shown in the FIGURE and Tables 7A and 7B, the visual appearance ofthe emulsion did not have any significant effect on the overall spraycharacteristics of the aerosol. Therefore, it is possible to maximizethe overall formulation to minimize surfactant usage withoutjeopardizing spray characteristics.

C₁₂-C₁₄ alcohol ethoxylates with 7EO or 12EO (e.g., Tergitol® 15-S-7 andTergitol® 15-S-12), PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil (e.g. Tagat® CH-60),PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil (e.g. Tagat® CH-40), polyglyceryl-10laurate (e.g. Dermofeel® G10L), polyglyceryl-6 caprylate (e.g.Dermofeel® G6CY), and alkylpolyglycoside based on synthetic C₉-C₁₁ fattyalcohols (e.g., APG® 325 NK) are preferred for solubilizing fragranceoils. Once optimized, the preferred ratio is 4:1 surfactant to fragranceoil therefor. Coco-glucoside, i.e., C₈-C₁₆ alkyl polyglycoside, e.g.,Glucopon® 425 N; sodium lauryl ether sulfate, and C₁₃-C₁₅ oxoalcoholethoxylate with 8 EO, i.e., C₁₃-C₁₅ ethoxylated fatty alcohol, e.g.,Lutensol® AO8, are also preferred surfactants for forming fragrance oilemulsions. C₁₂-C₁₄ secondary alcohol ethoxylate with 7EO or 12EO, PEG 60or PEG 40 hydrogenated castor oil, polyglyceryl-10 laurate,polyglyceryl-6 caprylate, and C₁₃-C₁₅ oxoalcohol ethoxylate with 8 EO,i.e., C₁₃-C₁₅ ethoxylated fatty alcohol, e.g., Lutensol® AO8, arepreferable for solubilizing insect additives. The preferred, unoptimizedratio therefor is 5:1 surfactant to insect additive.

The exemplary embodiments herein disclosed are not intended to beexhaustive or to unnecessarily limit the scope of the invention. Theexemplary embodiments were chosen and described in order to explain theprinciples of the present invention so that others skilled in the artmay practice the invention. As will be apparent to one skilled in theart, various modifications can be made within the scope of the aforesaiddescription. Such modifications being within the ability of one skilledin the art form a part of the present invention.

It is claimed:
 1. An aqueous aerosol composition comprising: (a) water;(b) at least one active agent which is water-insoluble or includes awater-insoluble component; (c) an anionic surfactant or a nonionicsurfactant which is present in an amount sufficient to, by itself,solubilize (b) in said water without aid of a solvent or solubilizer;and (d) a compressed gas propellant; wherein said composition is ahomogenous blend in water, said composition does not include a cationicsurfactant or a zwitterionic surfactant, and (b) is present in relationto (c) in a ratio of 1:2 to 1:5.
 2. The composition of claim 1, whereinsaid at least one active agent is a fragrance.
 3. The composition ofclaim 1, wherein said at least one active agent is an insecticide. 4.The composition of claim 1, wherein the composition further includes asolubilizer.
 5. The composition of claim 4, wherein the solubilizer ispropylene glycol.
 6. The composition of claim 1, wherein said surfactantis sodium lauryl ether sulfate.
 7. The composition of claim 1, whereinsaid surfactant is an alkylpolyglycoside based on C₉-C₁₁ fatty alcohols.8. The composition of claim 1, wherein said surfactant is a C₈-C₁₆alkylpolyglycoside.
 9. The composition of claim 1, wherein thesurfactant is a C₁₃-C₁₅ oxoalcohol ethoxylate with eight ethyleneoxides.
 10. The composition of claim 1, wherein the surfactant is aC₁₂-C₁₄ secondary alcohol ethoxylate with 7 ethylene oxides.
 11. Thecomposition of claim 1, wherein the surfactant is a C₁₂-C₁₄ secondaryalcohol ethoxylate with 12 ethylene oxides.
 12. The composition of claim1, wherein the surfactant is polyethylene glycol (60) hydrogenatedcastor oil.
 13. The composition of claim 1, wherein the surfactant ispolyethylene glycol (40) hydrogenated castor oil.
 14. The composition ofclaim 1, wherein the surfactant is polyglyceryl-10-laurate.
 15. Thecomposition of claim 1, wherein the surfactant is polyglyceryl-6caprylate.
 16. An aqueous aerosol composition comprising (a) water; (b)at least one active agent which is water-insoluble or includes awater-insoluble component; (c) a surfactant present in an amountsufficient to solubilize (b) in said water without aid of a solvent orsolubilizer, wherein said surfactant is selected fromalkylpolyglycosides, alkali metal alkyl ether sulfates, C₁₃-C₁₅oxoalcohol ethoxylates, C₁₂-C₁₄ secondary alcohol ethoxylates,polyethylene glycol hydrogenated castor oils, polyglyceryl-10 laurates,and polyglyceryl-6 caprylates; and (d) a compressed gas propellant;wherein said composition is a homogenous blend in water, saidcomposition does not include a cationic surfactant or a zwitterionicsurfactant, and (b) is present in relation to (c) in a ratio of 1:2 to1:5.
 17. The composition of claim 16, wherein said at least one activeagent is a fragrance.
 18. The composition of claim 16, wherein said atleast one active agent is an insecticide.
 19. The composition of claim16, wherein the composition further includes a solubilizer.
 20. Thecomposition of claim 16, wherein the solubilizer is propylene glycol.